TAZARA: Enhancing Operational Capabilities and SADC Railway Regional Integration

In this edition of Railways Africa Magazine’s ‘Coffee with the Editor,’ filmed at the recent Land-Linked Zambia 2024 event, we speak with Bruno Ching’andu, Managing Director of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). He discusses the current state and forward-looking strategies set to shape the future of TAZARA.

Bruno Ching’andu acknowledges the challenges but also points to operational successes made possible by significant governmental support, including much-needed capital injections. This financial backing has enabled key enhancements such as the purchase of new traction motors and the rehabilitation of wagons, projecting an increase in cargo capacity and operational efficiency.

The conversation also turns to strategic collaboration with private sector operators, with the recent Open Access Agreement with Bravo Group Ltd. TAZARA is committed to fostering economic growth along the Dar es Salaam Corridor.

Additionally, we delve into the paused revitalisation programme that was initially set to modernise TAZARA and the shift towards a concession strategy, aiming to draw substantial investment to further develop the railway’s capabilities.

We discuss TAZARA’s role in regional integration, emphasising its pivotal position in the SADC railway network and its potential to facilitate connections with the East African Community, thereby enhancing transport links all the way to Uganda.

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